Differential Diagnosis for Right Scapula Pain after Continuous Use
Single Most Likely Diagnosis
- Scapulothoracic Bursitis: This condition involves inflammation of the bursae located between the scapula and the thoracic wall, which can be caused by repetitive motion or continuous use of the arm, leading to pain in the scapular area.
Other Likely Diagnoses
- Subscapular Bursitis: Similar to scapulothoracic bursitis, this involves inflammation of the bursa under the scapula, often due to repetitive activities.
- Scapular Stress Fracture: Although less common, stress fractures in the scapula can occur, especially in individuals involved in repetitive throwing or overhead activities.
- Rhomboid or Levator Scapulae Strain: Strains in the muscles that stabilize and move the scapula can cause pain, especially after continuous use.
- Thoracic Outlet Syndrome: Compression of the nerves and/or blood vessels that pass into the thoracic outlet (the space between your collarbone and first rib) can cause pain in the scapular area, among other symptoms.
Do Not Miss Diagnoses
- Pulmonary Embolism: Although rare, referred pain from a pulmonary embolism can sometimes be felt in the scapular area, making it a critical diagnosis not to miss due to its high mortality rate if untreated.
- Pneumothorax: A collapsed lung can cause sharp, stabbing pain that may be referred to the scapular area, especially if the pneumothorax is small and not immediately diagnosed through typical symptoms like shortness of breath.
- Myocardial Infarction: In some cases, myocardial infarction (heart attack) can cause referred pain in the back, including the scapular area, especially in women or individuals with diabetes.
Rare Diagnoses
- Scapular Osteochondroma: A type of benign bone tumor that can cause pain and discomfort, especially if it presses on surrounding tissues or nerves.
- Ewing's Sarcoma: A rare type of cancer that can affect bones, including the scapula, and cause pain.
- Multiple Myeloma: A cancer of plasma cells in the bone marrow that can lead to bone pain, including in the scapula, though this would typically be part of a more systemic presentation.